Taxes are one of the only things that are certain in life, and they are certainly a part of homeownership. Rates vary greatly depending on where you live, though, so it’s difficult to predict how much you’ll owe or even when and how you’ll be required to pay.

To help quell the confusion in Contra Costa County,

car insurance

comparison app

Jerry

has gathered everything you need to know about your property taxes. Read on to find out how much you should plan for, and when and how to pay.

Property tax 101

Especially if you’re a new homeowner, you may never have had to pay property tax before, so here’s a primer:

Your local government assesses property taxes, which they collect and use to pay for public works and community services, such as education, libraries, community centers, and much more.

Property taxes usually apply only to what’s known as real property—like buildings and land.

Your tax assessor determines how much you’ll pay each year based on your real property’s market value and the local tax rate.

Fluctuating market conditions and local budgets cause property taxes to change frequently.

Without property taxes, local governments could not fund basic services like law enforcement, fire departments, and schools. They’re what keep your county running.

MORE: Is car insurance tax deductible?

What is the property tax rate in Contra Costa County?

The average property tax rate in Contra Costa County is .71% of assessed home values, which is right on par with

California’s

state average of .74%. Based on this rate, Contra Costa residents should expect to pay an average of about $3,883 per year on property taxes.

You can learn more about Contra Costa’s property taxes and other tax collections on the

Contra Costa County Tax Collector Services website

How Contra Costa County property taxes are determined

Contra Costa County consists of 77 taxing districts, each setting an annual budget for using those taxes. The county auditor determines the overall tax rate for each district.

The value of your property, on the other hand, is determined by

your local tax assessor

based on the property’s fair market value. As a property owner, you have the

right to appeal

if you feel your property’s value has been incorrectly assessed.

If your property is your primary residence, you may qualify for a

Homestead Market Value Exemption

, which can reduce the appraised valuation of your property and even help protect your home from repossession if it’s subject to a property tax lien.

What do Contra Costa County property taxes pay for?

Contra Costa County property taxes are allocated as follows:

Schools, 48%

Special districts, 20%

County, 13%

Redevelopment dissolution, 11%

Cities, 8%

MORE: How to deduct a car accident from your taxes

How to pay property taxes in Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County property taxes are paid each year in two installments—on November 1 and February 1.

Contra Costa residents can

pay their taxes

, online, via mail, in person, or through their mortgage:

Online: Residents who choose to pay online may do so free of charge with an E-check, or they may choose to pay a 2.5% transaction fee (minimum $3.50) to use a debit or credit card.

By mail: Pay by check, made out to Contra Costa County Tax Collector, and mailed to County Tax Collector, PO Box 631, Martinez, CA 94553-0063

In person: Visit the County Tax Collector’s office in room 100 of the Finance Building, 625 Court Street, Martinez, CA 94553.

Through your mortgage: Property tax bills are sent to your mortgage lender if you choose to pay in this fashion. Check with your lender to take advantage of this option.

MORE:

California minimum car insurance laws

How to save money on homeowners and car insurance in Minnesota

No matter where you live in Contra Costa County,

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When are property taxes due in Contra Costa County?

Contra Costa County property taxes are due on November 1 and February 1 each year.

How do I get my California property tax statement?

Your property tax statement will be mailed to you by November 1, and will include coupons for your February and the next November payment.

Are property taxes high in Contra Costa County?

Property taxes in Contra Costa County average about $3,883 a year, which is on par with the state average but higher than the national average.

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